Hi, I’m Kristel, an Asian-American therapist passionate about supporting individuals and families through their most vulnerable moments. With experience helping clients navigate challenges like depression, anxiety, trauma, life transitions, relational issues, and cognitive and developmental disabilities, I’m committed to fostering healing and growth. I provide a safe, compassionate, and non-judgmental space where clients feel heard, supported, and empowered to explore their struggles. My culturally sensitive approach respects your unique experiences and values, helping you move toward emotional health, resilience, and lasting positive change. I’m dedicated to walking alongside you on your journey toward personal growth and life fulfillment.
What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?
I will provide you with a warm, welcoming and supportive space to be able to share your challenges and concerns. During our first session, we will focus on what brings you to therapy while developing trust and setting goals. I want to leave you with a clearer idea of how my therapeutic approach will support your progress. Our first session will focus on creating a plan that’s tailored to your needs, ensuring that this journey feels both comfortable and empowering for you.
Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.
I believe my greatest strengths as a provider lie in my ability to create a safe, non-judgmental space where you can feel heard and understood. I’m deeply empathetic, personable, and skilled at building trust, which helps clients feel comfortable opening up and exploring their challenges. I’m also very adaptable, tailoring my approach to each client’s unique needs and goals. My strength-based perspective allows me to empower clients by focusing on their existing strengths and resilience, helping them tap into their own resources for growth and healing. Overall, I’m committed to supporting clients in a way that feels collaborative, supportive, and empowering.
Describe the client(s) you are best positioned to serve.
I have worked with individuals challenged with depression, anxiety, trauma, life adjustments, relational problems and cognitive and developmental disabilities. I prioritize creating a safe and non-judgmental environment for my clients to explore their struggles while promoting growth and healing.
About Kristel San Miguel
Kristel San Miguel offers therapy covered by Central California Alliance for Health (Medi-Cal), Gold Coast Health Plan (Medi-Cal), L.A. Care Health Plan (Medi-Cal), Orange County Mental Health Plan (Medi-Cal), Partnership HealthPlan of California (Medi-Cal) and San Francisco Health Plan (Medi-Cal) in California.
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VirtualMy treatment methods
Strength-Based
Over the past seven years, I've had the chance to work with clients using a strength-based therapy approach, and it's been such a rewarding experience. Instead of only focusing your problems, we’ll work on identifying your strengths and what you're already doing well. It’s amazing to see clients grow more confidence when they realize what they’re capable of. I enjoy supporting clients tap into their own resources and make real progress toward their goals.
Solution Focused Brief Treatment
I'll help you focus on your strengths and resources, guiding you toward practical solutions rather than dwelling on problems. We’ll explore what’s already working in your life, identify clear goals, and develop actionable steps to move forward. Together, we’ll build on past successes and create a future-focused plan, empowering you to make positive changes and overcome obstacles with confidence.
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
I like to use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help you identify and challenge negative thought patterns that impact your emotions and behavior. We’ll work together to reframe unhelpful thoughts, develop healthier thinking habits, and practice new coping strategies. By gaining insight into how your thoughts influence your actions, you’ll learn practical tools to manage stress, improve your mood, and create lasting change in your life.